This Is the New Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we move from the Gospels and Acts into the Pauline Epistles.
What Is Galatians? Galatians is a letter written by Paul to churches in Galatia to clearly communicate the gospel message. He writes that sinners can be justified, or moved from a state of sin to a state of righteousness, through faith in Jesus Christ. This faith, rather than obedience to the law, is what allows for godly living.
How Galatians Fits Into the Story: In Galatians, we find a summary of the true gospel: salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone and not the law. In this letter, Paul teaches extensively about the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life, including commands to “walk by the Spirit,” “be led by the Spirit,” and to “keep in step with the Spirit.” This submission to the Holy Spirit in every moment is what empowers us to live godly lives and carry out the work of the gospel.
Reflection Questions:
1. What does today’s reading from Galatians say about living by faith?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
AZ Walker. Thank you for your insights to my question yesterday.
I thought about the song that goes “I’m no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of god.”
This is probably where the inspiration came from.
In Galatians I wrote down:
Flesh=limits/Spirit=limitless
Law=bondage/Gospel of Christ=freedom
What a difference.
No comparison.
A no-brainer as some would say.
Oh the mercy and grace of our God to take us from a limited existence of bondage in the flesh and offer us limitless love and joy in the freedom-walk with Jesus.
All the glory is certainly His.
Good stuff, Angie! Thanks for sharing
I’ve written down needs from the last few days and am praying over each one. May the gentle touch of our Father be upon each of you.
Victoria E.- I am praying especially for your peace in this time of waiting for the ultrasound. God is near.
For those dealing with infidelity in marriage, alcohol use, chronic health issues, lean into the Father. Allow Him to hold and comfort you as only He can.
Teachers is it almost time to return. We won’t go into a new year in our own strength. Armor up. And may the Fruit of the Spirit shine from us all.
Miri am – I am not a doctor, but wanted to ask about the foods you are eating. I know as simple as incorporating a little soy in my diet once a week has helped me. I treat myself to a green tea latte, made with soy when I am feeling irritable and anxious in my spirit, probably about once a month. My Gynocologist suggested it. I know it is a little thing but, it helps me. I’m not saying that is specifically what you need, but there are people with understanding of how food makes a difference. I want to eat that dark chocolate donut (and sometimes I do), but I know those steamed or raw veggies and fruits and lean proteins effects the way I feel physically and emotionally in a better way. It is the discipline that I struggle with at times. It’s just a suggestion.
Angie thank you for praying for me!
I grew up in a works-based faith. What joy there was to learn that it is through faith I am reconciled to Christ! My works will never measure up, but His work IN my life produces the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control that I could never achieve on my own.
Amen Christine F
Jenn, thank you for sharing your experience, strength and hope. My son is now where you were. I pray the Holy Spirit will deliver him and set him free. It is encouraging to read and see hope. Daly, I don’t think my son is willing to allow God to work in his life yet.
I was particularly struck today by how we quote the first part of this but not the second: “For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself. 15 But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.”
WOW. How much biting and devouring have we been doing this past year? Man, I don’t know about you guys, but I am so exhausted by divisiveness. I’m so tired of judging people for how they’ve conducted themselves during the pandemic, for whom they supported politically, for which side of the fence they stand on.
This image of us devouring one another just really jumped out at me today. More loving, less devouring, Lord. Let that be me.
In agreement, amen!
Amen to that, Charlie.
The pull to live of the world is so strong. I’ve done and it and still do it all the time, but I’ve been through enough that I know that walking in God’s will and walking in step with the Spirit is the BEST way. Lord, rid me of my sinful nature and mold me to look, act, and think more like You! Help me to stand firm in You today and every day!